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Texas Lawmakers Tackle Disaster Preparedness in Marathon Hearing, Set to Hear Kerrville Voices Next Week

 

Staff Writer – Cuero Online News |July 27, 2025

In a nearly 12-hour joint hearing that drew testimony from top state agencies and emergency officials, the Texas Senate and House Committees on Disaster Preparedness and Flooding took decisive steps toward crafting legislation aimed at strengthening the state’s emergency response infrastructure. Held in Austin, the hearing marked a pivotal moment in an ongoing effort to improve coordination, communication, and life-saving preparedness in the face of Texas’s increasingly frequent natural disasters.

Markers of loss, reminders of duty—these crosses honor lives cut short and underscore the urgent need for stronger disaster preparedness across Texas. (Kerr County, Tx July 2025)

Testimony was presented by Nim Kidd of the Texas Department of Emergency Management, along with leadership from the Department of Public Safety, Texas Parks and Wildlife, TXDoT, the Public Utility Commission, and the Texas Water Development Board. These agencies addressed critical issues, ranging from disaster timelines and warning protocols to infrastructure resilience and inter-agency coordination.

Of particular focus was the exchange with the Upper Guadalupe River Authority, which oversees operations along the Guadalupe River in Kerr County. The dialogue highlighted the importance of river gauge technology, early alert systems, and cross-agency best practices in flood-prone regions. Testimony from additional river authorities reinforced the need for consistent standards and local empowerment in water management strategies.

Kerr County, Tx – The aftermath of the deadly flood July 4, 2025.

In a deeply technical yet urgent final panel, lawmakers zeroed in on radio interoperability—a key factor in ensuring first responders can seamlessly communicate across jurisdictions during emergencies. The discussion underscored the vital role that communication infrastructure plays in both immediate response and long-term recovery efforts.

Committee members—including journalists, lawmakers, and emergency management advocates—acknowledged the emotional weight of the hearing. Many spoke to the courage of first responders who risked their lives and the tireless dedication of volunteers aiding in recovery across impacted communities.

Next week, committee members will travel to Kerrville to hear firsthand from local officials and residents who experienced the recent tragedy. This upcoming hearing represents not just a fact-finding mission, but a continued commitment to listening and legislative action informed by community voices.

Standing where memory lives—members of Texas Search & Rescue pay quiet tribute at a fence transformed into a shrine for disaster victims. (Kerr County, July 27, 2025)

The road ahead may be complex, but the tone set in Austin signals meaningful change. Texans can expect future legislation to reflect both technical innovation and heartfelt testimony, as lawmakers work to protect lives and strengthen resilience statewide.

PUBLIC NOTICE FOR DEWITT COUNTY * AUGUST 6TH HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN UPDATE 

Dewitt County invites residents to take part in shaping the updated Hazard Mitigation Plan—because readiness starts with us.

TRCCA Announces New Leadership for 2025–2027 Term

 

Staff Writer – July 27, 2025

The Texas Republican County Chairmen’s Association (TRCCA) has welcomed its newly elected 2025–2027 Board of Directors. With officers and regional directors spanning counties across Texas, the association enters a new season committed to strengthening local coordination and voter engagement.

Executive Leadership

  • President: David Stein (Smith County Republican Chairman)
  • Vice President: Will Orr (Hill County)
  • Secretary: Cheryl Thompson-Draper (Lavaca, former)
  • Treasurer: Michael Bergsma (Nueces, former)
  • TRCCA/SREC Liaison: Rita Jordan (Karnes County)

The Texas Republican County Chairmen’s Association (TRCCA) continues to fortify the foundation of conservative leadership in the Lone Star State by supporting the 254 Republican County Chairs who serve as the party’s #GrassrootsGenerals. These local leaders play a pivotal role in organizing elections, mobilizing voters, and promoting Republican values in their communities.

At the heart of TRCCA’s mission is a commitment to education, training, and strategic guidance. Whether newly elected or seasoned in their roles, County Chairs benefit from a statewide network that equips them to lead effectively and uphold the integrity of Texas’s electoral process.

This summer, TRCCA hosted its annual leadership conference, bringing together County Chairs from across the state for workshops, peer collaboration, and policy discussions. The event underscored the organization’s dedication to fair and free elections and its role in advancing Republican principles—one county at a time.

TRCCA’s efforts reflect a broader movement to empower local voices and ensure that grassroots leadership remains strong, informed, and united in shaping the future of Texas.

🌍 Regional Directors

Region Director County
Reg 1 Dan Rogers Potter
Reg 2 David Andrews Jones
Reg 3 David Hale Hunt
Reg 4 Donnie Wisenbaker Hopkins
Reg 5 Vacant
Reg 6 Robert Porter Brown
Reg 7 Curtis Courtney Bastrop
Reg 8 Michael McCracken Angelina
Reg 9 Dana Dobbs Goliad
Reg 10 Sandra Kindt Washington
Reg 11 Toni Trevino Starr

With Region 9’s representation by Goliad County’s Dana Dobbs, residents of DeWitt and surrounding areas may find added relevance in this board’s regional outreach. The vacancy in Region 5 also signals an opportunity for emerging voices.

Looking Ahead

TRCCA’s new leadership aims to:

  • Improve training for county chairs
  • Expand voter outreach and education
  • Increase transparency between local and state party platforms

LEANDER FLOOD RELIEF: COMMUNITY IN ACTION

Over the past week, volunteers have worked around the clock in Leander—clearing debris, delivering supplies, and standing with families in crisis. Thanks to your donations and prayers, lives are already being lifted. From babies born amid cleanup to families rebuilding from total loss, every story carries the weight of heartbreak and the spark of resilience.

Behind the scenes, there are leaders quietly amplifying this effort. One of them is Jeni Garrett, whose initiative has become a lifeline for dozens of families. She’s mobilized support at an extraordinary scale—and while her resources may look different from most, her heart appears just as rooted in service.

I’m looking to sit down with Jeni soon—not to shift focus away from the families, but to understand how this movement came together so swiftly and powerfully. My hope is that her story can spark even more momentum across Crossroads.  – Pat Trevino

Jeni Garrett writes:

LEANDER FLOOD RELIEF UPDATE – JULY 21
Over the past week, teams of volunteers have been working around the clock across the flood zone in Leander—delivering supplies, clearing debris, meeting with families, and doing whatever it takes to help them begin again.
With the help of your donations and prayers, here are just a few of the families that have been served:
Esmeralda & Alejandro – A family of 8 who lost both of their homes. With donated funds, they received cash and gift cards for urgent needs, hygiene supplies, and help pausing utility bills. Long-term housing and rebuilding will be needed.
 Allyssa – Was in pre-labor when we met. Her home had flood damage, and our team cleaned and organized her home and now discussing gameplan for flood damaged areas of home with Eli Brachan- amazing humble volunteer who owns Best Water Solutions in Houston (trying to convince her to the name, her baby Eli)
Cisneros-Rojas Family – Lost their home. Caring for their niece and nephew, ages 14 and 16—the boy recently had a heart transplant. Cleanup was near complete when I left and support provided.
Socorro Recio – Lost the home the family lived in for over 25 years and is now hosting us on her land. Donations helped provide a generator, fuel, and financial support. The next step is finding housing for her family of five.
 Melanie Morales – Lost everything. This mother of four month old is now starting over. thanks to essentials provided through your support, including special formula for her baby, clothing, and help connecting with local aid groups she can start to move forward.
 Yarli Lara – Family of four who lost their rental home. Your donations provided for urgent expenses. They’re currently staying with extended family while searching for a new place.
 These stories are just a glimpse.
 There’s still so much to do—but we’ve seen what’s possible when people come together with willing hearts and open hands. From diesel fuel to demolition crews, donated meals to baby wipes—every bit has mattered.
And most of all: God has provided at every turn.
If you’ve prayed, given, packed a box, made a phone call, or simply shared this journey—thank you.
We’ll keep showing up. One family at a time.
Wouldn’t it be amazing if the Crossroads Community could BRING FAMILIES HOME BY CHRISTMAS.
(If you would like to help Jeni or offer a donation her link is below)

Cuero Select Track Club’s Young Star Heads to College Station

By Trisha Garcia – July 25, 2025

CUERO, TEXAS — The Cuero Select Track Club is beaming with pride as one of its rising young athletes, Elijah S., secures a coveted spot in the upcoming state track meet in College Station, representing Cuero in the 10u boys 200-meter dash and also serving as an alternate for the 4×100-meter relay team.

Only ten years old and already leaving big impressions on the track, Elijah’s performance in recent regional qualifiers proved he’s not just fast—he’s fiercely focused. His impressive finish in the 200m earned him a solo lane at the state level, and his consistency and teamwork earned him a relay alternate position, a testament to his athletic range.

Cuero Select Track Club – July 25, 2025

Track Club organizers say Elijah’s advancement reflects dedication beyond his years. “He shows up, works hard, encourages his teammates—he’s everything you hope for in a young athlete,” said one observer.

Parents, fellow runners, and community members alike are cheering Elijah on. His achievement adds to Cuero’s growing legacy of nurturing local athletic talent and building opportunities for youth through sports.

As College Station prepares to host the best of the best across Texas, Cuero is already celebrating. Elijah may be running solo in the 200m, but he carries an entire town’s pride with him.

🏁 Good luck, Elijah. Cuero is behind you all the way.

Geraldine Beatrice Brigham (Brown) – December 15, 1952 to July 18, 2025 (73)

NIXON, TX – Geraldine Beatrice Brown Brigham was one of eight children born to Tom Willis and Annie Ruth Brown in Nixon, Texas, in 1952. At a young age, she accepted Christ and was baptized at Harris Chapel United Methodist Church in Nixon, TX.

She graduated from Brackenridge High School in San Antonio, TX, in 1971. Her passion for learning led her to earn an Associate of Science degree from St. Philip’s College in 1982, followed by a Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in 1983, and a master’s degree in 1985—both from Southwest Texas State University in San Marcos, TX.

Geri was a dedicated and beloved educator, pouring her heart into shaping young minds through the power of mathematics. She taught for 28 years, leaving a lasting legacy at Patti Welder Middle School in Victoria, TX, and Ed White Middle School in San Antonio, TX, before retiring in 2016.

Family was everything to Geri. She cherished her time with loved ones and enjoyed the simple joys of life—especially a good game of BINGO!

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Howard Lee Brown; and her sisters, Tommie Ruth Brown and Sharon Ann Brown Green.

Geri leaves behind her daughter, Yvonne Lychel Howelton; her son, Alvin Duane Holmes; her beloved grandson, Amani Douglas-Levell Roberts; her remaining siblings, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, and a host of dear family members and friends who loved her deeply.

Though Geri has transitioned from this earthly life, her spirit lives on in each of us. We find peace in knowing she is in the presence of our Lord and Savior. “To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.” — 2 Corinthians 5

At Geri’s request, no formal graveside service will be held.

Local Athletes Shine at Cuero’s Summer Volleyball Camp

By Staff Writer | July 25, 2025

🏐 CUERO, TEXAS — Over the course of a high-energy 2.5-day volleyball camp, young athletes in Cuero stepped onto the court with heart, hustle, and an eagerness to learn.

Designed to strengthen fundamentals and spark a deeper love for the game, the camp drew participants who showed up ready to dig deep—literally and figuratively. From bumping and setting to serving drills and teamwork exercises, the players absorbed coaching tips while building confidence in every play.

“The energy was contagious,” said one staff member. “You could feel their excitement in every serve and cheer.”

More than just a skills camp, the sessions fostered a strong sense of team spirit. Whether high-fiving after a rally or encouraging one another during fast-paced drills, the players proved that growth happens quickest when support is part of the game plan.

As the final whistle blew, smiles and sore muscles told the story: this group brought dedication, resilience, and a true love for volleyball to every minute on the court.

With enthusiasm like this, Cuero’s future in volleyball looks bright—and the community couldn’t be prouder.

Judge Daryl Fowler Announces He Will Not Seek Re-Election After Four Terms

By Pat Trevino – July 23, 2025

Cuero, Texas — In a heartfelt announcement made during a meeting of the De Witt County Republican Party, longtime County Judge Daryl Fowler shared that he will not seek a fifth term in office. After serving the community for nearly two decades, Fowler expressed that the decision came after deep reflection, prayer, and conversations with family.

“This decision was a difficult one to make and I do not take it lightly,” Fowler said. “But it is time to consider passing the responsibilities of the office to another individual who will commit to making our county an even better place to live, work, and raise families.”

Fowler has held the position for four consecutive terms, earning the trust of constituents through his steady leadership and commitment to public service. He emphasized the personal significance of his time in office, noting the “friendships gained” and “cherished memories” that have marked his tenure.

Since first taking office in 2011, Fowler has championed initiatives aimed at strengthening De Witt County’s infrastructure and financial stability. He played a key role in securing legislative support for the County Transportation Infrastructure Fund (CTIF), which brought over $475 million in state revenue to counties impacted by Eagle Ford Shale development. Under his leadership, the Commissioners Court applied more than $200 million toward rebuilding the county road system, retired over $9 million in debt, and maintained a steady tax rate for eight consecutive years.

Fowler’s tenure has also included active support for historical preservation, civic engagement, and legislative collaboration. He has served on multiple state task forces, including appointments by Governor Greg Abbott and the Texas Railroad Commission, and has advocated for policies that ensure counties receive fair compensation for energy development on public lands.

While he will not be on the ballot in the upcoming election cycle, Fowler assured residents that his dedication remains unwavering. “There will be plenty of work on my desk and work with the Legislature to resolve through the end of this current term,” he stated. He will continue to serve until his successor is sworn in January 2027.

Fowler’s message to the community was clear: gratitude and continued service will define his final chapter in office.

Youth Ignited 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament Brings Competition and Community to Cuero

By Staff Writer
July 23, 2025

CUERO, TX — Local teens are invited to lace up their sneakers and bring their best game to the Youth Ignited Boys 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament, happening Friday, August 9 at 5:00 PM at the Cuero Municipal Park.

Hosted by United and the Tri-City Empowerment Council, the tournament is open to boys ages 13 to 18 and promises an evening of fast-paced action, community spirit, and exciting rewards. The top four teams will walk away with cash prizes, including:

  • 🥇 1st Place – $300
  • 🥈 2nd Place – $225
  • 🥉 3rd Place – $150
  • 🎖️ 4th Place – $75

Registration is free, but space is limited. Teams are encouraged to sign up early by scanning the event’s QR code or visiting the official event page.

Organizers say the tournament is more than just a game—it’s a chance to empower youth, foster teamwork, and build connections across the community. With the Cuero Municipal Park’s full-size courts and welcoming atmosphere, the event is expected to draw a strong turnout of players and spectators alike.

Whether you’re competing for the top prize or cheering from the sidelines, the Youth Ignited tournament is set to be a slam dunk for Cuero’s young athletes.

For more details or to register, visit the Tri-City Empowerment Council’s event listing.